How do I know if I need a water softener or filter?

• <div><p>You can decide whether you need a water softener or water filter based on how your bathing or laundry experience is. If you notice issues like limescale buildup, dry skin, or stains on dishes—all telltale signs of hard water—you'd likely benefit from a water softener. However, if your main concern is over chemicals or bacteria in your tap water filter, and not just comfort, a filter is a better option.</p></div>

Does water softener installation require a license?

• <div><p>The license requirements for water softener installation depend on your location. Some municipalities require that the installer hold a plumbing license, some require a permit and an inspection, but no license for the installer, and some require a permit and a license for the installer. Regardless of the local laws in your area, it’s always a good idea to hire a licensed plumber or installer. These pros will install your system properly and have the experience to size the system appropriately. Use Angi’s <a href="https://www.angi.com/angi-license-check.htm">state licensing tool</a> to check your installer’s license status.</p></div>

Get matched with top water softener pros in Erie, IL

Q: What shortens the life of a water softener?

• <div><p>There are several things that can shorten the life of a water softener. Homes with very hard water may have to replace the unit sooner because the water softener works harder to filter out the hard minerals. High water usage and infrequent maintenance can also put more strain on a water softener.</p></div>

Q: What causes poor water pressure in the shower?

• <div><p>There are many possibilities for why your shower&rsquo;s water pressure is low. It might be a simple-to-fix issue like the water valves being partially turned off, a dirty showerhead or hose, leaks in the plumbing, or an old showerhead. However, low water pressure in the shower could also indicate a larger issue with your home&rsquo;s plumbing system.</p></div>

Q: How do I choose the right water softener for my home?

• <div><p>Choosing involves understanding water hardness levels, household size, desired features, and consulting professionals experienced in suitable system types.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Water Softener Service pros in Erie, IL

*The Angi rating for Water Softener Service companies in Erie, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Softener Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Water Softener Service companies in Erie, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Water Softener Service needs.

Last update on November 24, 2025

Reviewed in March 2020
These guys were fabulous, Ismail, & the crew were Professional, very thorough in their work, the job was done in a very timely manner. I had a generator installed, water system & the fridge-ice & water system completed to boot. I would recommend these guys & back them 100%. I wish they did...
Hurricane Home Solutions Southern Tier Inc. (S Ohio)
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Reviewed in September 2019
I've had Ron complete several projects for me in my home over the past couple of years, including: new toilet install in basement, busted pipe that attaches to outside hose, sink/vanity install, water heater install and a bathtub waste overflow drain replacement. I've spent well over $2000 with...
Metropolitan Plumbing Company
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Reviewed in June 2014
Their WaterGuard system really works. MidAmerica installed it in another part of the basement in April 2014 and there has been no water on the floor even after several heavy rains - dry as a bone!
MidAmerica Basement Systems
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Reviewed in April 2014
The work went along as planned. although they seldom showed up when scheduled. There were many delays. And now a year and a couple of months later, we discovered that he actually did more harm. The pipe that went from the tank to the fields should also have been replaced. By not completing the...
MR CLEAN SEPTIC SVC
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Reviewed in May 2013
I called on a Thursday nite when I discovered water in my basement even though we had a sump pump. They came first thing Friday AM and made sure everything was ok even though a friend had got it working. I called 2 weeks later when the pipe sprung a leak and sprayed water into the basement...
Kelly Heating Cooling & Plumbing
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Reviewed in March 2013
Quoted early August 2011 with late August completion date, however work did not start until early September and did not complete until later September. Over all was 4 weeks late. Keep having to call back checking status of getting started or new completion date. Work was verbally quoted at...
American Electric, Inc.
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Reviewed in August 2011
Plumber fixed small gas leak near water heater and stopper problem in a bath vanity sink. He was prompt, very professional but needed my push to be persistent in finding the very small gas leak. Upon his arrival, only knew the leak was near the water heater.
STARKS PLUMBING SERVICE INC.
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Reviewed in March 2010
I had rusty water flowing across my basement floor. Upon exam I saw that the gas water heater was about 20 years old. I called Hometown because of the great work and professional service they had provided my employer in the past. The quote they gave me was for 50 GAS gallon water heater,...
Hometown Mechanical, Inc.
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Water Softeners questions, answered by experts

There are several things that can shorten the life of a water softener. Homes with very hard water may have to replace the unit sooner because the water softener works harder to filter out the hard minerals. High water usage and infrequent maintenance can also put more strain on a water softener.

There are many possibilities for why your shower’s water pressure is low. It might be a simple-to-fix issue like the water valves being partially turned off, a dirty showerhead or hose, leaks in the plumbing, or an old showerhead. However, low water pressure in the shower could also indicate a larger issue with your home’s plumbing system.

You can decide whether you need a water softener or water filter based on how your bathing or laundry experience is. If you notice issues like limescale buildup, dry skin, or stains on dishes—all telltale signs of hard water—you'd likely benefit from a water softener. However, if your main concern is over chemicals or bacteria in your tap water filter, and not just comfort, a filter is a better option.

The license requirements for water softener installation depend on your location. Some municipalities require that the installer hold a plumbing license, some require a permit and an inspection, but no license for the installer, and some require a permit and a license for the installer. Regardless of the local laws in your area, it’s always a good idea to hire a licensed plumber or installer. These pros will install your system properly and have the experience to size the system appropriately. Use Angi’s state licensing tool to check your installer’s license status.

Choosing involves understanding water hardness levels, household size, desired features, and consulting professionals experienced in suitable system types.

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